Thermo King Alarm 17.

The Thermo King Alarm 17 indicates that the diesel engine powering the compressor of the refrigeration system failed to start when requested by the microprocessor. The manufacturer provides the following description:

Alarm Code 17:

• Color Indicator: Yellow
• Description: The engine did not start.
• Action: If the unit shuts down, repair immediately. Otherwise, report the alarm at the end of the day.

Troubleshooting Steps:

1. Check battery voltage; test battery charge to ensure it can retain the charge internally.
2. Inspect the interface circuit board for fuses and relays, especially fuse F3.
3. Use a grounding wristband to prevent internal damage due to static electricity.
4. Place the unit in continuous mode and observe LEDs on the circuit board, particularly LED 25 for the start signal.
5. Verify for a pushed pin in the circuit 8S connector and check for any open or broken wires.
6. If equipped with an electric standby motor, check the electric motor clutch for any issues.
7. Inspect the starter motor’s condition.
8. Check the relay interface circuit board controlling the fuel cutoff solenoid.

Clearing Alarm Code 17:

• This alarm must be cleared manually through the keyboard interface screen.

Other Possible Alarms:

• Alarm 17 may be accompanied by Alarm 84 (Null Restart), but follow the diagnostic procedure for Alarm 17 first.

Programming the Thermoking Microprocessor for Alarm 17 Detection:

• The microprocessor checks the engine RPM through the engine revolution sensor.
• If the engine RPM is below 40, Alarm 17 is activated.
• Additionally, if the engine RPM is above 40 but suddenly drops below 40, Alarm 17 is triggered.

Recognizing Fault 17 in Thermoking:

Fuel System:

• The electric fuel pump creates a vacuum in the fuel tank supply line.
• Atmospheric pressure in the fuel tank pushes fuel upward.
• Fuel reaches the fuel filter and is distributed to the mechanical injection pump and then to injectors.

Fuel Solenoid:

• When the fuel solenoid is energized, fuel is allowed to pass to the injection pump, enabling the final feed to the injectors.
• It serves as a cutoff system for shutting down the system.

Starter Motor:

• The electric starter motor provides the initial impulse to the diesel engine for the first revolutions.
• Components include the starter motor, starter solenoid, and diesel engine coupling pinion.
• The starter engages the diesel engine through the coupling solenoid, rotates the diesel engine, and disengages once the diesel engine is running.